Sri Lankan Chicken Curry with Cashews
A rich and creamy chicken curry featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in coconut milk with aromatic spices and the subtle crunch of cashews. This dish offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors, characteristic of Sri Lankan cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken thighs(skinless, boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Chili powder
- 1 tsp Salt(plus more to taste)
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp Garlic(minced)
- 1 tbsp Ginger(minced)
- 4 pods Green cardamom pods(slightly crushed)
- 3 whole Cloves
- 1 sprig Curry leaves
- 1 large Red onion(finely chopped)
- 2 large Tomatoes(chopped)
- 100 g Cashew nuts(soaked in water for 1 hour)
- 1 tbsp Red chili paste
- 400 ml Coconut milk
- 1 tsp Brown sugar(or kithul)
- Fresh coriander(for garnish)
- Steamed rice(to serve)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Marinate the chicken pieces with turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Set aside.
💡 Tip: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes for better flavor absorption. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- 3
Add the crushed cardamom pods, cloves, curry leaves, and chopped red onion to the pan. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down, about 5 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the red chili paste and cook for another minute.
- 6
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan and stir well. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the spices.
- 7
Add the soaked cashew nuts and brown sugar. Stir gently to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure cashews are well-drained after soaking. - 8
Pour in the coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, and the sauce has thickened.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 9
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Garnish with fresh coriander.
💡 Tip: Serve hot with steamed rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk.
- ✓Adjust chili powder and red chili paste to your preferred spice level.
- ✓If cashews are not soaked, they may not soften properly in the curry.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like green beans or bell peppers along with the cashews.
- For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or fresh green chilies.